The world of professional surfing is abuzz with anticipation as the Lexus WSL Finals Fiji Presented by Corona Cero approaches. Set against the stunning backdrop of Fiji’s legendary waves, the competition will crown the 2025 World Champions. The elite Final 5 men and women are ready to battle it out in a winner-take-all format, with the exact competition day to be determined by the best surf conditions.
Key Takeaways
- The waiting period for the Lexus WSL Finals Fiji runs from August 27 to September 4, 2025.
- The competition will take place on the single best day of waves within that window.
- A potential "swell of the year" is forecasted for the latter part of the waiting period, with both Cloudbreak and Restaurants being considered as venues.
- Format updates for 2025 give the No. 1 seed an advantage, including priority in all heats and the potential to clinch the title after winning the first heat of the final match.
The Final 5 Prepare for Battle
The stage is set for an epic conclusion to the 2025 World Surf League Championship Tour. The top five male and female surfers have arrived in Fiji, poised to compete for the ultimate prize. This year’s event features a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, all vying for a shot at surfing immortality.
On the women’s side, top seed Molly Picklum (AUS) leads a talented field that includes defending champion Caity Simmers (USA), Gabriela Bryan (HAW), Caroline Marks (USA), and Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW). The men’s field is equally stacked, with Yago Dora (BRA) as the No. 1 seed, alongside formidable competitors Jordy Smith (RSA), Griffin Colapinto (USA), Jack Robinson (AUS), and Italo Ferreira (BRA).
Wave Selection and Forecast
While the official waiting period began on August 27th, organizers are closely monitoring the ocean conditions. Initial forecasts suggested a potential competition day around September 1st or 2nd, with WSL Deputy Commissioner Renato Hickel eyeing a "swell of the year" that could favor the wave known as Restaurants. This powerful left-hand barrel, situated in front of Tavarua Island Resort, has a history of producing incredible performances.
Format Updates for 2025
This year’s WSL Finals introduces a significant format update designed to reward the top-ranked surfer. The No. 1 seed will now have priority in all heats and, if they win the first heat of the best-of-three World Title match, they will be crowned World Champion without needing to surf the subsequent heats. This change adds an extra layer of strategy and pressure to the already high-stakes competition.
Anticipation and Broadcast
Fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the call that will signal the start of the competition. The Lexus WSL Finals Fiji Presented by Corona Cero promises a thrilling conclusion to the season, with the world’s best surfers battling for the ultimate title in one of surfing’s most iconic locations. The event will be broadcast live on WorldSurfLeague.com and the free WSL app.
### Sources
- ‘Swell of the Year’ Headed to Fiji for WSL Finals Day (Video), SURFER Magazine.
- Final 5 Surfers Ready to Challenge for 2025 World Titles at Lexus WSL Finals Fiji Presented by Corona Cero |
World Surf League, World Surf League. - World Title glory awaits in paradise, proper swell inbound for Lexus WSL Finals Fiji | Corona Cero Dawn
Patrol, World Surf League. - Opening Day of official holding period is Wednesday! But Next Call Sept 1st. Final 5 Surfers Ready to
Challenge for 2025 World Titles at Lexus WSL Finals Fiji Presented by Corona Cero, Surf News Network. - WSL Announces Format Updates for 2025 Lexus WSL Finals Fiji, World Surf League.
